Janette Wilkinson, MN, PMHNP
How to Become a Nurse in Oregon
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner
Willamette Health & Wellness in Portland, OR
Nurses are a vital part of our healthcare system in Oregon. They promote health, prevent disease, educate communities, and advocate fiercely on behalf of their patients. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, nursing is the largest healthcare profession in the United States, with approximately 4.7 million registered nurses. And more than 56,000 of those registered nurses are working right here in Oregon.
Nursing offers a variety of interesting roles that grow and evolve as your education, skills, and talents expand. With numerous specialties and areas of practice, the nursing profession provides a diverse range of professional opportunities. You will find Oregon nurses working in:
- Hospitals, emergency departments, and surgical units
- Outpatient clinics and community health centers
- Public schools and universities
- Long-term care and rehabilitation facilities
- Hospice, palliative, and home healthcare
- Telehealth services and vital clinics
- Research, leadership, and public policy roles
- And many other places!
What’s It Like to Be an Oregon Nurse?
With more than 56,000 nursing professionals already working in the state, Oregon remains a popular destination for nurses. Oregon nurses are recognized not just for their clinical expertise but also for their leadership in advocating for equitable healthcare, driving innovation in patient care, and shaping public health policy.
The state ranks third in the nation for top wages, as well as strong, nurse-centric legislation that includes enforcement of nurse-to-patient ratios and more. Oregon is not a compact state, which means any nurse working in Oregon must apply for licensure directly with the Oregon State Board of Nursing.
I want to apply to nursing school or finish my degree
Explore the different types of nursing degrees and explore nursing programs throughout Oregon and SW Washington!
I want to pass the NCLEX or find my first nursing job
Learn how to sit for the NCLEX, the national licensing exam for nurses, and start your post-grad nursing practice in Oregon.
Still exploring nursing as a possible career?
Join us for the Friday Huddle, a weekly virtual conversation with nurses from across Oregon! It's a great opportunity to gain insight into the profession, hear about the current nursing landscape, and more. Click below to learn more and register for an upcoming call!